Bayer AG uses big data to research new animal health products, but also for targeted marketing. The company, whose Bayer Animal Health unit has its U.S. headquarters in Shawnee, is working with an area firm to gain customer insights. "Big data has kind of become the buzzword of the last decade," said Doug Yoder, head of marketing research for Bayer Animal Health.

Italian healthcare group Bracco is working on a potential bid for the radiology supplies unit that Germany's Bayer AG is considering selling, people close to the matter said. Bracco has mandated an investment bank to find a partner for a possible joint offer for the unit, which may be valued at more than 4 billion euros (4.3 billion), they said. Bayer has not yet made a final decision on whether it will sell, but earlier this year mandated Goldman Sachs as a sellside advisor and sent out information to prospective buyers, the people said, adding that the auction had been expected to start next year.